During my years as a television news reporter and anchor, the assignment desk would erupt in activity whenever they heard about a cruise ship coming back to port with sick passengers. But what does "norovirus" really mean -- and should we be worried about it?

Cruise ship dining once conjured up images of gluttons bellying up to the buffet. Now gastronomy trumps gluttony: A more discerning generation of foodies is selecting ships and itineraries based on their culinary allure.

Thankfully, the cruise industry puts its money where it's mouth is in terms of passenger safety by trying to prepare for the worst case scenario: a fire at sea. Ships are built with fire safety in mind.